Toronto Police Service
www.tps.ca
———————–
News Release
Project Paper Bag, Online Cellphone Fraud, Two Men Arrested
Broadcast time: 06:00 AM
Date: Monday, Apr 22, 2024
Unit: 51 Division
Case #: 2024-839208
The Toronto Police Service is making the public aware of arrests made in an online Fraud investigation.
It is alleged that:
two men have been committing frauds using the Facebook Marketplace platform since 2021
they advertised Apple iPhones for sale and would meet potential victims
the men sold fraudulent phones that resembled Apple iPhones, or provided cell phone boxes that contained rice or sand
additionally they also provided fake receipts for the phones to convince the victims that the cell phones were authentic
several of the interactions with victims have resulted in physical altercations, and the victims were struck and robbed of their cash by the men
the men would then flee the area in a white-coloured Honda Civic
On Friday, April 19, 2024, members of the 51 Division Major Crime Unit executed three search warrants in Toronto and Peel Region.
It is further alleged that:
police seized evidence including a large quantity of currency, fake cell phone boxes containing rice and other evidence
Jovane Martin, 25, of Brampton, was arrested and charged with:
Conspiracy to commit an indictable offence
Possession of proceeds of crime over $5,000
13 counts of Fraud Under $5,000
two counts of Robbery
seven counts of disguise with intent
Jeremiah Stoute, 25, of Mississauga, is was arrested and charged with:
Conspiracy to commit an indictable offence
Possession of proceeds of crime over $5,000
13 counts of Fraud Under $5,000
two counts of Robbery
Disguise with intent
Dangerous operation of a motor vehicle
They are scheduled to appear at the Toronto Regional Bail Centre, 2201 Finch Avenue West, on Monday, April 22, 2024, at 10 a.m., in room 106.
Police believe there may be more victims.
Images have been released.
Police would like to advise the public of the following tips to reduce the risk of being victimized while buying or selling items online
Attempt to meet the buyer or seller at your local police division, or at a location you feel safe
Do not send any money online or e-transfer prior to having possession of the item(s)
Do not bring large amounts of cash or make large purchases without checking the item(s)
When buying or selling an item, ensure that you inspect the item(s) prior to completing the transaction
Anyone with information is asked to contact police at 416-808-5100, Crime Stoppers anonymously at 416-222-TIPS (8477), or at www.222tips.com.
Constable Sinderela Chung for Detective Constable Mustafa Popalzai
Images for this release are available on our website.
—————————————————————————
https://www.tps.ca/